5 ways to combat summer allergies | Health & Wellness Services

While these methods are effective for most people, it’s important to continue to monitor your symptoms. If you’ve tried all recommended treatments daily for at least one or two weeks without relief, or if you develop a fever, it’s time to visit your primary care provider for additional evaluations or testing.

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3. Consider allergy testing

Allergy testing can help you diagnose your exact allergies and work with a healthcare provider to come up with a plan to relieve your symptoms. Allergy tests can be used for seasonal allergies as well as allergens related to foods, drug reactions, skin allergies and more.

These tests are performed at allergy clinics by applying potential allergens to your skin. Depending on how severe your reaction is, your doctor may recommend allergy shots to help reduce or eliminate your symptoms. Allergy shots are the most effective way to treat allergies and work better than prescription medications. A few allergy shots can give you long-term relief that can last for five to 10 years. However, many individuals experience relief for the rest of their lives.

While Wardenburg Health Center does not offer allergy testing, students can receive allergy shots through the Allergy Clinic at Wardenburg Health Center.

How much do allergy shots cost?

The cost of allergy shots can vary based on factors like how many allergens need to be treated and how frequently you need to be treated to control your symptoms. Shots are typically administered weekly but may be reduced over time to once per month.

Most insurance companies cover the cost of allergy shots. Depending on your plan, you may only need to pay a copay or coinsurance. Keep in mind that without insurance, allergy shots can cost between $2,000 and $4,000 yearly, so it’s best to check your plan’s coverage before scheduling an appointment.

If you have a CU health insurance plan, you can review your coverage online or through the Sydney Health app.

4. Reduce indoor allergens

Outdoor allergens aren’t the only culprit when it comes to allergy symptoms. In fact, many allergens like pollen, dander and other irritants can exist in our homes as well. Here are a few steps you can take to reduce and remove allergens from your home.

Keep windows and doors closed to prevent allergens from blowing indoors.
Use an air purifier with a HEPA filter.
Remove your shoes when entering your home.
Wipe down surfaces more often and wash linens (e.g., bedding, towels, blankets, etc.) regularly.
Change clothes and consider taking a shower after outdoor activities (e.g., hiking, yard work, sports, etc.).
Bathe pets more frequently to remove allergens they may carry inside.
Dust blinds more often.
Remove clutter around your home to reduce buildup of dust and other allergens like pollen.
Vacuum carpets more often, which can trap and spread allergens.
Use exhaust fans in bathrooms to reduce moisture, which can promote mold spores.
Keep an eye out for bug nests like bee hives around your property (have them properly removed by professionals).